It’s been a few years now since we were plunged into makeshift home offices, and with the rise of remote work, many of us are spending more time than ever at our home desks. While some of us resigned ourselves to making-do, others have levelled up their homes to create work/life spaces that truly work for them.

If your space could benefit from a little makeover, a new year brings new opportunities, and it’s time to make sure your home office is working for you. Whether you’re carving out a space in your living room or dedicating a whole room to your work, here are some tips to help you create a comfortable and productive workspace in 2023.

Turn your home office into a space that supports your success

A well-designed home office can help increase productivity, reduce stress, and create a sense of separation between work and personal life (not to mention adding dollars to your re-sale value). So what are you waiting for?

Define your space
First and foremost, it is important to define your workspace. This means dedicating a specific area of your home to be used as your office. This could be a spare room, a corner of your living room, or even a small nook. The key is to have a designated area that is solely used for work. This will help create a mental boundary between work and personal life, making it easier to focus and be productive.

Consider a renovation refresh
You’ve been crammed into your corner “office” long enough. Flexible working is here to stay, so push some walls out, extend the room and create some space that will let you work better.

First, out with the old so you can be in with the new. Say it with us now – “reduce, reuse, recycle”. Out with the paperwork you printed off just in case. Be gone with the spare chair for the work friends that said they’d visit but never did. Sell the succulent that’s gathering dust in the corner. It’s a new season, and a new mindset.

When you clear out, make sure you look for things in good condition so you can pass forward instead of sending it to landfill. Look for recent technology, plants, furniture, and office supplies – even if you can’t resell it, a new home might be waiting for it via the op-shop.

Let the light in
Studies show that natural light can improve your mood and productivity, so try to position your desk near a window if possible. If that’s not an option, use a combination of overhead lighting and desk lamps to create a well-lit space. And if you need to block out distractions, noise-cancelling headphones can work wonders.

Personalise it
Your home office should reflect your personal style and make you feel good. Add some personal touches like artwork, plants, or a cozy throw blanket to make the space feel more inviting. This will help create a positive and inspiring atmosphere that will motivate you to work. Whether you prefer coastal corporate or skyline suite, Pinterest is a great place to find decorating inspiration for your home office.

Make it comfortable
Comfort is key when it comes to a home office. Invest in a comfortable chair and a good quality desk that is the right height for you. Make sure your computer monitor is at eye level to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders. It is also important to have good lighting to reduce eye strain.

Keep it organised
An organised workspace can help increase productivity and reduce stress. Make sure to keep your workspace free of clutter and unnecessary items. Use organisers and storage solutions to keep your office essentials within reach. This will make it easier to find what you need and stay focused on your work.

Take your home workspace to the next level

Now really is the perfect time to evaluate your home workspace and make any necessary changes to support your productivity and comfort.

By investing in ergonomic furniture and equipment, creating a dedicated workspace, maximising natural light and minimising distractions, personalising your space, and staying organised, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and productive year ahead.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you – your home workspace should be a reflection of your unique needs and preferences. With a little effort, you can turn your home office into a space that inspires creativity and supports your success. So take your home workspace to the next level – you won’t regret it!